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Florence ISD

Inspire - Empower - Achieve!

Special Education Terms

ARD: Admission, Review, Dismissal 
DIAG: Educational Diagnostician 
FAPE: Free and Appropriate Education 
FIE: Full Individual Evaluation 
IEP: Individual Education Plan 
LRE: Least Restrictive Environment 
LSSP: Licensed Specialist in School Psychology 
OT: Occupational Therapist 
PT: Physical Therapist 
SLP: Speech Language Pathologist

What is Child Find?

The purpose of Child Find is to locate, identify and evaluate children from birth to 21 years of age and their possible need for special education and related services. Child Find is a free referral and information service available through local education agencies and Service Center Region XIII. 

Children learn at different rates but some children have significant difficulty. We’re here to help you access services to meet the unique learning needs of your child. If you are concerned your child may be learning, playing or interacting differently from others, please contact your campus counselor, principal, or the director of special education.

 

Referral Process
Referrals may be initiated by (but are not limited to): 

  • Parents
  • Preschool Teachers/Directors
  • Physicians
  • Outside agencies/therapists/ECI


Students receiving services through ECI will be transitioned into the public school system starting as early as 150 days prior to their third birthday. 

What is the next step?
District evaluation staff will: 

  • Schedule a screening if needed
  • Schedule an evaluation if needed
  • Schedule and facilitate the ARD (Admission, Review, Dismissal) meeting
  • Gather enrollment information if the child qualifies for special education service

Who is Eligible?
Children with disabilities from birth through age 21 are covered, regardless of severity. This includes children who are being homeschooled or who are in private school. All evaluations and services (if qualified) are provided by schools through IDEA at no cost to the individual or parents.

*Special education and related services are available to all eligible individuals ages three through 21 years of age. 

Contact Special Education Office

cmarkham@florenceisd.net

254-793-2850 x2239